We are serious. Give us a call if someone stole your catalytic converter, but call the authorities and your auto insurance company first. It is important that you report the theft to see if it is covered by your insurance policy. After you have taken care of this, give us a call so we can schedule an appointment for you to install a new catalytic converter underneath your automobile.
The Engine Is Loud
Let’s talk about the signs that the catalytic converter has been stolen. When you first hop into your car and start the engine, you are going to notice that it is louder than normal. In fact, it will be extremely loud and make roaring sounds. The loud noise that you hear is the exhaust being forced out of the exhaust manifold.
The CEL Is On
Normally, the manifold pushes the exhaust into the catalytic converter. The converter muffles the action, which is why your engine isn’t normally that loud. Because the manifold is pushing the exhaust into the open air, the exhaust system sensors are going to go nuts. They will send several error codes to the engine control module and it will turn on the CEL or check engine light.
The Acceleration Jerks
The check engine light isn’t going to turn off until you replace the catalytic converter. If you try to drive your automobile, you will also notice that the acceleration jerks. Your vehicle will lurch forward every time you press down on the accelerator. The reason why is that the converter not only muffles the exhaust push but also absorbs its force.
Slow Speeds Are a Problem
Another problem you will have driving your automobile without a catalytic converter is it will sputter at slow speeds. Unfortunately, with the converter gone, the engine will struggle to produce power. It will have an easier time reducing power when you are driving at higher speeds.
The Exhaust Odors Are Strong
We cannot stress enough that it is a bad idea to drive your automobile if the catalytic converter was taken. You are going to discover very quickly that you can smell your vehicle’s exhaust inside the car, truck, or utility vehicle. This is because the exhaust floats up from underneath the vehicle after the manifold has released it. These exhaust odors can make you sick.
Mike’s Automotive in Juliet, TN, is here to help, so call us so we can replace your catalytic converter.